Tuesday, July 3, 2018

FIBA SCANDAL

The ugly all-in brawl erupted at the Philippine Arena with just over four minutes left in the third quarter with Australia ahead 79-48.

The explosive encounter, which led to objects being thrown around the court as players threw wild punches, was sparked after Boomers guard Chris Goulding was fouled and shoved to the floor.

Aussie Daniel Kickert reacted immediately, elbowing an opposition player. Chaos ensued as the Filipino side raced into the melee. They came from everywhere as the benches cleared and all hell broke loose.

Nine Philippine players were also ejected after the nasty confrontation but, in farcical scenes, the match continued with just three Philippine players still eligible to be on the court.

They then deliberately fouled the Australians so they could gradually be disqualified from the game and bring an early end to the drama that ended with an 89-53 win to the Boomers with 1min 57sec left in the third quarter.

A long delay followed as officials from FIBA and both countries engaged in a discussion, leaving the score in Australia’s favour at 79-48.

A local official appealed to the crowd to remain calm and show the Boomers respect.
Some of the most sickening scenes saw players being punched and kicked while they were lying helpless on the floor, while one Australian had a chair thrown at his head by someone who wasn’t even a player.

Basketball’s international governing body has opened disciplinary hearings against Australia and the Philippines.

“FIBA will now open disciplinary proceedings against both teams. The decisions will be communicated in the coming days,” the world body tweeted.